Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Europa League Qualifying match.
CFR Cluj have already played four matches in this Europa League campaign, while Sporting Braga have featured in two, with both sides needing extra time to progress. This upcoming fixture is expected to be closely contested.
CFR Cluj
CFR Cluj began their European journey by overcoming Paksi FC, following a goalless draw in the away leg and a commanding 3:0 win at home. They then met Lugano, adopting a largely defensive approach across both legs. The decisive moment came in the 96th minute of the second leg, with that goal being the only one scored in the 210 minutes of football against Lugano. The team has been struggling for form, failing to win any of their last five matches in regular time, with four of those games featuring no more than two goals.
Sporting Braga
Sporting Braga had a similar route, playing out two goalless draws against Levski Sofia. Despite dominating possession and generating chances, they only managed to advance thanks to a goal scored in the 104th minute. However, the squad arrives in good form, having won five consecutive friendlies, including notable victories over Celta de Vigo (3:1) and Panathinaikos (2:1).
CFR Cluj vs Sporting Braga Prediction
Both teams are defensively well-organised but often lack cutting edge in the final third. Given the cautious approach typically employed by both sides, a low-scoring contest appears likely.
